Awards Honour Commitment to Guelph Student Life

March 22, 2013 - Campus Bulletin

University of Guelph students’ dedication to pulling tractors for kids once a year was honoured at the 2013 Student Life Awards on March 21.

The annual Tractor Tug for Tots, organized by the Student Federation of the Ontario Agricultural College (SFOAC), began four years ago. This year, the students raised more than $6,000 for Right to Play, a global organization using sports and games for children facing adversity.

The SFOAC was among the groups and individuals honoured at the Student Life awards, which took place at the Delta Hotel and Conference Centre.

SFOAC was one of three winners of the Be the Change award. Other winners were the College of Biological Science Student Council, which organized a lip dub video, and Drew Cumpson, who, after suffering an injury that left him a quadriplegic and in a wheelchair, committed himself to improving accessibility in the community.

The award was one of several given to students, staff, faculty and community members at the event.

“We are much richer because of your involvement in the university,” said Brenda Whiteside, assistant vice-president (student affairs). “Student leaders are often the impetus for change, and many changes on campus are the result of student prodding. As award winners, you don’t just have to be amazing, you have to rise above.”

Guelph city councillor Leanne Piper said students benefit the city and its neighbourhoods: “The partnership and relationship we have is felt every day. You may feel what you’re doing are just little things, but the impact of those little things can cause a ripple which will be felt years from now.”

Former provost Paul Gilmor, who served at the University from 1967 to 1987, presented the R.P. Gilmor Student Life Award, recognizing those committed to improving the student experience at Guelph. It was given to Samuel Mosonyi, a political science student, and Lee Anne Clarke, business manager of the Central Student Association.

Discussing challenges and benefits of developing a vibrant student life department, Gilmor said, “I am reminded of the importance of connections and relationships, as they make and sustain change. We looked to build a student life and services organization to shape and influence undergraduate life in a holistic way. The very skills and attributes we recognize tonight are necessary for success going forward.”Other Winners:Accessibility Award
Claudia Havoic